PSEUDOMEMBRANE Meaning and
Definition
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A pseudomembrane refers to a thin and fragile layer of filmy tissue that forms on the surface of certain body tissues or organs, usually as a result of inflammation or infection. This distinctive membrane is composed of a mixture of dead cells, fibrin, white blood cells, and bacteria or other pathogens. It typically develops in areas where the body's natural defense mechanisms are compromised or overwhelmed.
The term "pseudomembrane" is commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in relation to conditions that affect mucous membranes or the lining of certain organs. For example, pseudomembranous colitis is an infection of the colon, often caused by an overgrowth of the bacteria Clostridium difficile, which leads to the development of a pseudomembrane on the intestinal lining. Similarly, pseudomembranous conjunctivitis refers to an inflammation of the outer membrane of the eye, resulting in the formation of a pseudomembrane over the conjunctiva.
Identification of a pseudomembrane typically involves clinical examination and may be verified through laboratory tests or biopsies. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause but often include antimicrobial medications, supportive care, and addressing any predisposing factors. In severe cases, removal of the pseudomembrane may be necessary to improve healing and prevent complications.
Overall, the presence of a pseudomembrane generally indicates significant inflammation or infection within the affected tissue or organ, representing a key diagnostic and therapeutic consideration in various medical conditions.
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False membrane, a fibrinous exudate forming a tough felt-like membrane on the surface of the skin or a mucous membrane.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PSEUDOMEMBRANE
- pseudomembrale
- pseudomembraoe
- pseudomembranu
- pseudomembranm
- pseudomembrana
- pseudomembrang
- pseudewmembrane
- pseuduemembrane
- ps eudomembrane
- pse udomembrane
- pseu domembrane
- pseud omembrane
- pseudo membrane
- pseudom embrane
- pseudome mbrane
- pseudomem brane
- pseudomemb rane
- pseudomembr ane
- pseudomembra ne
- pseudomembran e
Etymology of PSEUDOMEMBRANE
The word "pseudomembrane" is derived from combining two Greek roots: "pseudo" and "membrane".
1. "Pseudo" (/ˈs(j)uːdoʊ/) comes from the Greek word "pseûdos" (ψεῦδος), meaning "false" or "deceptive". It is commonly used as a prefix in English to indicate something that is not what it appears to be or imitates something else.
2. "Membrane" (/ˈmɛmˌbreɪn/) originates from the Greek word "membránē" (μεμβράνη), which refers to a thin, flexible sheet or layer.
When combined, the term "pseudomembrane" describes a false or deceptive layer that resembles a membrane.
